Date published: 2 April 2025
Some of the topics discussed included:
- Causes of cancer
- Signs & symptoms
- The importance of cancer screening
These Health Matters sessions take place in the Senhouse Centre and feature different themes on themed weeks.
The brief overview video available above also features Advanced Nurse Practitioner Julie Taylor who explains the benefits and features of these sessions.
Many thanks to all who attended and were involved in this event.
For resources and to find out more about our cancer awareness work please select here.
Cancer awareness is about understanding the risks, symptoms, and importance of early detection in fighting cancer. Raising awareness helps save lives by encouraging prevention, screening, and timely treatment.
Common Types of Cancer:
- Breast Cancer – Most common in women but can affect men too.
- Lung Cancer – Strongly linked to smoking but can affect non-smokers.
- Prostate Cancer – One of the most common cancers in men.
- Colorectal Cancer – Affects the colon or rectum, often detected through screening.
- Skin Cancer – Linked to sun exposure and UV rays.
Signs & Symptoms to Watch For:
✔ Unexplained weight loss
✔ Persistent lumps or swelling
✔ Unusual bleeding or changes in bowel habits
✔ Chronic cough or difficulty swallowing
✔ Skin changes, such as moles that grow or change shape
Importance of Early Detection:
Early diagnosis significantly improves survival rates. Regular screenings like mammograms, pap smears, colonoscopies, and self-examinations can help detect cancer before symptoms appear.
Prevention & Risk Reduction:
✅ Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption
✅ Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly
✅ Protect skin from excessive sun exposure
✅ Stay up to date with vaccinations (e.g., HPV and Hepatitis B)
✅ Attend routine health screenings
